How to Choose the Best Car for Your Family

Key Considerations

Finding the best car for your family starts with reading reviews and looking at the following key features:

• Safety ratings: A vehicle's safety rating is arguably the most important factor to consider. The best cars for parents are ones that have been thoroughly tested and recognized with high safety scores or awards.
• Seating Capacity: Your family size will determine how much seating you need, but it’s also important to consider the space taken up by car seats. Will all the seats fit comfortably across one row? For families with more than two children, a third row often becomes a necessity. You’ll also want to decide between captain’s chairs and a bench seat in the second row, depending on your needs for space, access, and flexibility.
• Trunk Space: Kids come with a lot of gear: strollers, diaper bags, sports equipment, and more. Daily life can fill up your trunk faster than you’d expect. Make sure the vehicle has enough cargo space to match your family’s lifestyle. Even something as simple as fitting groceries alongside a stroller can become a challenge without the right amount of room.
• Technology: Modern tech features can go a long way in helping you feel safer and more confident behind the wheel. Driver-assistance tools like lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring quickly become must-haves once you experience them. Front and rear cameras also make parking and maneuvering easier. And with smartphone integration, you can stay connected without distraction.
• Ease of Cleaning: Let’s face it—family cars get messy quickly, so having a vehicle that’s easy to clean is a huge plus. Look for designs that make it simple to vacuum hard-to-reach spots like the third row or between captain’s chairs. Some models even come with built-in vacuums, making clean-up even more convenient.
• Rear-Seating Access: Third-row seating is a great feature, but easy access to it is something parents should consider, especially when buckling in kids. In most vehicles, a second-row side seat will tilt or slide forward to allow entry to the third row. This becomes especially important when planning your car seat setup and making sure everything fits while still allowing access where you need it.

Car Seat Compatibility and LATCH Systems

Cars with car seat compatibility are essential for families with little ones. While both LATCH (short for Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) and seat belt installation are safe, the LATCH system can make installation much easier. Most vehicles manufactured after September 2002 include at least two LATCH seating positions. In SUVs and minivans, LATCH anchors may be available in all seats or only in the second row. It varies by model, so it’s a great thing to ask about during a test drive.

Fuel Efficiency or Hybrid/ Electric Options 

Saving money is always a plus. One key feature to consider is fuel efficiency—be sure to check a vehicle’s miles per gallon (MPG). More and more vehicles today are hybrid, meaning they combine a gas engine with an electric motor. Hybrids are a great option overall. They're especially practical for parents who mostly drive on local roads, where the car can stay in electric mode more often and use less gas.

While hybrids may have a higher upfront cost, the long-term savings on fuel can make them well worth it. If you’re not familiar with hybrids, one thing to note is that they often make a soft “chime” sound when backing up. This alerts people nearby since the engine is very quiet (another benefit).

EVs (electric vehicles), on the other hand, run solely on a battery. EVs offer the best fuel efficiency by eliminating gas usage altogether. Instead of gas stations, you’ll rely on charging stations. The only downside is adjusting to this new lifestyle such as planning for longer trips and possibly installing a home charging station.

To Minivan or Not to Minivan?

When choosing whether you're ready to make the move to a minivan, consider the following:

Social Stigma vs. Practicality

Minivans still carry the stereotype of being a “suburban soccer mom” vehicle or simply being unattractive. And yes, some models do have a boxy design, but the practical benefits often outweigh those first impressions. One of the biggest advantages is the large cargo space. Whether it's hauling a double stroller, sports gear, or multiple suitcases, a minivan’s trunk can handle it all. Another practical advantage is the flexible seating. Most minivans offer seven- to eight-passenger configurations, depending on the brand. This is a must for parents with multiple kids or anyone who carpools regularly.

Modern Minivans vs. SUVs

Today’s minivans offer many of the same features as SUVs, including spacious interiors, third-row seating with either captain’s chairs or a bench, and options for hybrid. Automakers continue to prioritize advanced technology in both vehicle types, focusing on safety and convenience to meet the needs of modern families. The main difference lies in the cargo space. Minivans are known for their spacious trunks, and it's often surprising just how much they can hold. However, SUVs definitely offer a wider variety of brands and models to choose from, whereas there are only five minivan models.

Why Real Parents Love Their Minivans

"I absolutely love my minivan (Kia Carnival)! Once I had my second baby I knew I needed a bigger car and the minivan has been the BEST choice… the sliding doors are truly life-savers when you have multiple car seats. I love opening the minivan doors before I even open the front door in the morning so my toddler can just jump in while I load the baby car seat in." —Tracy, Mom of 2

"I love my minivan because of the most up-to-date technology and the space. I previously had a three-row SUV, but once we started using the third row, the trunk space was cut by more than half. It became a struggle to fit a double stroller without cramming it in." —Andres, Dad of 3

"I love my minivan because it’s comfortable and easily fits my family of five and all of our stuff. I love that the third row offers plenty of leg room for big kids and adults, and the captain seats in the middle row are as comfortable as sitting up front." —Kristin, Mom of 3

"I love that I can pack six kids (of different ages) into my minivan which is great for carpooling! I also love that I can separate my three kids for long trips so they aren’t right next to each other, which definitely keeps our drives more peaceful!" —Meghan, Mom of 3

When a Minivan Truly Shines

There are plenty of great reasons to love a minivan, but the sliding doors top the list. As a parent, they’re a total game changer. You can open the doors for your kids as they get in and out, or they can do it themselves—minivan doors are easier to handle and much lighter than traditional car doors. Plus, not having to stress about the door swinging open and hitting another car next to you is an underrated bonus.

Best Cars for Families with Kids: Top Picks for 2025

1. 2025 Kia Carnival — Best Modern and All-Around Minivan 

• Category: MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle)

• Why: Large cargo space, Sliding doors, Hybrid option, Great warranty, Up-to-date technology, Camera to view second row without turning around

The Kia Carnival is classified as an MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle), blending the practicality of a minivan with the bold styling of an SUV. That's why so many SUV-driving parents are making the switch. For families with multiple kids, it’s built to meet everyone’s needs without cramming, thanks to its impressive cargo space. The spacious interior offers generous legroom in both the second and third rows, making it a comfortable ride for passengers of all ages. Bonus: a hybrid option is available.

RELATED: Ultimate Road Trip Planner: How to Have the Perfect Family Road Trip

 
You'll love the roomy interior of the 2025 Sienna Hybrid. Photo credit: ©Toyota. All rights reserved

2. 2025 Toyota Sienna Hybrid — Best All-Wheel Drive Minivan for Families

• Category: Minivan

• Why: All-wheel drive, Built-in hybrid, Toyota's amazing reputation, Advanced rear-seat reminder, Large cargo space

Not every minivan offers all-wheel drive, which can be a must-have depending on where you live. The Toyota Sienna Hybrid stands out as one of the best all-wheel drive options on the market. It delivers everything you'd expect from a great minivan: spacious cargo room, sliding doors, and family-friendly flexibility. It's a built-in hybrid, and it comes with fun extras like a built-in vacuum and cooler—perfect for road trips, spills, and snacks on the go.​

3. 2025 Volvo XC90 — Best Plug-In Hybrid for Families

• Category: Mid-size SUV

• Why: Fast charging, Luxury interior, Family-friendly features, All-wheel drive

Luxury and hybrid efficiency come together in the Volvo XC90, making it an ideal choice for families. Its plug-in hybrid system allows for all-electric driving on shorter trips, with a smooth transition to hybrid mode for longer drives. Inside, you'll find a spacious cabin that comfortably seats seven, featuring Google-based infotainment, a panoramic sunroof, and four-zone climate control—perfect for keeping everyone connected and comfortable on the road.

4. 2025 Kia EV9 — Best for Eco-Friendly Families

• Category: Full-size SUV

• Why: Carbon reducing, Fast charging, Large interior with ample leg room, Top-tier safety

If being eco-friendly is important to your family, the Kia EV9 delivers with zero-emission driving and fast charging. It has a third row SUV options and offers second-row power-adjustable seats. These seats come with features like leg extensions, heating, and ventilation, perfect for keeping everyone comfortable in any weather. It’s a premium experience for both kids and adults.

RELATED: Road Trip Essentials To Keep Kids Occupied, Organized, and Comfortable

 
The 2025 Odyssey offers lots of bang for your buck. Photo credit: © Honda. All rights reserved

5. 2025 Honda Odyssey — Best Value Family Minivan

• Category: Minivan

• Why: Magic Slide seating, CabinWatch and CabinTalk, Smart tech, Sliding doors, Large cargo, Top-tier safety 

If comfort, convenience, and peace of mind are higher on your priority list than hybrid fuel economy or all-wheel drive, the Honda Odyssey truly stands out. Thoughtful features like the CabinWatch interior camera and CabinTalk PA system let you keep an eye on and communicate with rear-seat passengers easily. The innovative Magic Slide second-row seats slide both forward and back and side-to-side, making access to the third row simple even with car seats in place.

6. 2025 Kia Telluride — Best for Families with Teens

• Category: Mid-size SUV

• Why: Massive cargo space, Captain chair option, Advanced driver-assist tech, and Premium technology with USD ports in every row

If you’re looking for a crossover with a third row, the Kia Telluride deserves serious consideration. This roomy, upscale SUV provides ample space, generous cargo capacity, and comfortable seating, perfect for long road trips. Its versatility and family-friendly features like Rear Seat Quiet Mode, an intercom system, and multiple USB-C ports make the Telluride a favorite among families with kids of all ages, especially teens.

RELATED: Fun Car Games for Kids for Road Trips & Other Boring Backseat Moments

 
The 2025 Suburban has tons of room for all of your family's needs. Photo credit: © Chevrolet. All rights reserved

7. 2025 Chevrolet Suburban​ — Best for Sports Families

• Category: Full-size SUV

• Why: Massive cargo, High-tech entertainment system, Nine-person seating, All-wheel drive option

Whether you have multiple kids or an active crew that needs room for all their gear, the Chevy Suburban offers huge cargo space for sports gear without compromising passenger comfort. Plus, you can configure seating for seven, eight, or even nine people, making it ideal for families of all sizes. Families will also appreciate the available rear-seat entertainment system, featuring dual screens mounted on the back of the second-row seats. No more hearing, "Are we there yet?" on long drives!

8. 2025 Mazda CX-5 — Best for Families with Babies

• Category: Compact Crossover SUV

• Why: Strong reputation, Sporty handling, Easy car seat compatibility with LATCH system

Looking for the best car for baby? Mazda vehicles are known for their safety, consistently earning top ratings from both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The Mazda CX-5 comfortably seats five and provides generous cargo space for everyday essentials. The LATCH system makes it easy to add forward- or rear-facing car seats, making the CX-5 a solid choice for new families—especially those who value a sportier drive and a modern design.

9. 2025 Subaru Outback — Best for City-Living Families

• Category: Station Wagon

• Why: All-wheel drive, Front and side cameras, Easy to park, Ample leg room

The 2025 Subaru Outback is roomy enough for the whole crew and all their stuff, but still easy to park on a busy city street (especially with the available cameras and parking sensors). With all-wheel drive and great ground clearance, it handles rain, snow, and everything in between. And inside, there's space for groceries, strollers, or sports gear.

10. 2025 Chevrolet Trax — Best Budget-Friendly SUV

• Category: Compact SUV

• Why: Specious interior, Standard safety features, User-friendly technology

Sometimes sticking to a budget is top priority. The Chevrolet Trax gives families the flexibility of an SUV at a wallet-friendly price. While it may not have all the luxury extras , the Chevrolet Trax still packs in the essentials that matter: generous legroom for both kids and adults and smart tech like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Plus, it includes key safety features such as automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist, helping you feel confident on every drive.

11. 2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid — Family MVP Award

• Category: Crossover SUV

• Why: Easy to park, Largo cargo space, Five-star safety rating

The 2025 Honda CR-V is made for busy family life. It's a great balance of comfort, fuel efficiency, and everyday practicality. Whether you're hauling kids, groceries, sports gear, or the family pup, it offers a smooth ride with built-in safety features that every parents wants. With plenty of cargo space and modern technology, the CR-V remains a top pick for parents who need a do-it-all SUV.

Checklist: What to Bring When Test Driving a Family Car

Test driving the vehicles you're considering is crucial. Start by setting aside enough time for your visit to the dealership, as a thorough test drive can take an hour or more. Calling ahead to schedule an appointment is a smart move; it ensures the model you want to test drive is available on the lot. Also, plan ahead rather than wait until you urgently need a car. Certain models or trims may not be in stock and could take time to arrive, so giving yourself a buffer can make the buying experience smoother and less stressful.

Here's what to bring to your test drive:

• Driver's License 

• Prepared Questions — Ask about the features and benefits of the vehicle, such as LATCH locations and technology. Discuss your current needs with the dealer, and be sure to consider future needs as well, like the possibility of more children.

• Your children — Making sure your kids are comfortable in a vehicle is key, especially older kids who need adequate legroom and seating space.

• Gear — It sounds silly, but making sure your daily necessities fit in the trunk is important. So go ahead and bring that double stroller, huge hockey bag, etc.

Final Thoughts: Picking the Right Car for Your Family

Taking the time to weigh the pros and cons when choosing a family vehicle is essential. It’s a decision that should align with your family’s lifestyle while helping to reduce stress in the years ahead. Whether you're juggling car seats and strollers or managing older kids with sports gear, your family car is a significant investment in your daily life.

Another key factor to consider is choosing a vehicle that fits realistically within your family’s budget. With a wide range of brands, models, and trim levels available, it's important to be mindful and select an option that meets your needs without stretching your finances.You will know when you have found the right car for your family.